1965-66 season
Names are not spelled consistently in the programmes. George Tatnell's and Bob Sharp's names are almost always spelled incorrectly in the 1965-66 season programmes.
The spellings in the Australian Speedway Hall of Fame are
- Dick Briton
- Garry Rush
- Johnny Stewart
- George Tatnell
The spelling in the Motorcyling Australia Honor Rolls (Speedway Champions) is
- Bob Sharp
The spelling in Australian WW2 service records is
- Keith Blicharski
Sprintcar (including hot rod and supermodified) Champions:
[website]
[Google Docs spreadsheet]
Solo and Sidecar (speedway motorbikes) Champions:
[website]
[pdf]
WW2 service record:
[website]
1965 Programmes
Sept 25th 1965 — Meeting No. 1
Programme front cover and overleaf
Boilerplate information inside the front cover (overleaf):
THE SPEEDWAY ROYALE
Direction Empire Speedways Pty. Ltd. — Phone 31 4002
Directors: FRANK ARTHUR, J. O. SHERWOOD, A. N. PRYOR
Circumference of Track: 557 yards
Licence No. 185 under the Speedway Racing (Public Safety) ActMotor Cycle Events held under Speedway Regulations of the Australian Speedway Control Board
Track Licence No. 1 Permit No. 35
Stewards: R. White, R. Heuschkel, H. BartropSpeedcars — National Speedcar Club
President: L. Steele
Secretary: F. Silvestri
Chief Steward: Len Steele
Machine Examiner: Max NowakowskiStockcar and Hot Rod events controlled by Stockcar Owners & Drivers Assoc. (SCODA)
Chief Steward: Doug Douglas
Secretary: Les PritchardAnnouncer: Mike Raymond
Betting on Speedway Races Strictly Prohibited
Central District Ambulance in attendanceNOTICE
Should it be necessary, owing to rain, mechanical or electrical or through any cause whatsoever, to abandon a Speedway Meeting NO MONEY WILL BE REFUNDED, OR TICKETS ISSUED UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.
Speedway Photographs
The programme notes that:
Larry Taylor is the Official Photographer at the Showground Speedway, and his stands are situated behind the Suttor Stand and also next to Speedway Office, where a large variety of action and still photographs can be obtained. Larry is a commercial photographer, his private address being 140 Military Road, Neutral Bay, 90 3531.
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
We are pleased to report that Ray Kent is up and about following his nasty solo smash here last season. Ray, one of the nicest boys in the game, is slowly but surely on the road to recovery. He now has full use of his arms and legs and sneaks in a little relaxation by driving. We wish Ray all the best and hope that one day in the not distant future we will see him completely fit and well.
* * * * *
It will take a sturdy car to make an impression on the new concrete portion of the safety fence in front of the Members' Stand. The wall was built at great cost during the winter months and should stop many cars and bikes from climbing the fence. It is particularly solid and anyone who meets it during the course of action will probably bear out the previous statement. The wall should have its strongest test next Saturday night when the stock cars go to it in an "all in" 15 lapper.
From the second page:
Australian television history will be made tonight when ATN Channel 7 commence the first of a weekly series of hour long telecasts covering solo, sidecar, speedcar, hot rod and stock car racing. It will be the first time that an Australian station has ventured upon televising night meetings on a regular basis. The programmes taped can be seen on Saturday afternoons between 2.30 and 3.30 p.m. and on Thursday evening at 10.30 p.m. We would like to extend our thanks to ATN Channel 7 for their faith in speedway racing as a major spectacle. Possibly every regular speedway follower has known this for years but now millions of people will be able to see speedway under lights for the first time. Our special thanks go to Rex Mossop, Channel 7's sporting director and Phil Berry, the producer of the series. Without their support these programmes may have never come about.
* * * * *
The National Speedcar Club has a big Cabaret planned for 8th October at the Paddington Town Hall. Many well known TV and recording personalities will be appearing at the function and reservations may be made by telephoning Don Mackay at 79 2487. All proceeds from the Cabaret will be directed into the Club's Injured Drivers' Fund.
* * * * *
Latest news to hand from the American racing circuit shows that our old friend BOB TATTERSALL has moved to second behind Mike McGreevy in the U.S. Auto Club's National speedcar scampionship [sic.] point standings. Bob, a firm favourite with Australian speedway followers, currently trails by only 34 points in the series which finishes in November. Bob has had a great run this year at the wheel of the Norwicke Offenhauser. He has won nine feature championship races and set records on eight occasions. The likeable chauffeur from Streator, Illinois, is hopeful of racing here shortly after Xmas. We hope we can say welcome Bob Tattersall, 1965 National driving champion.
* * * * *
We would like to take this opportunity (although a little late) to congratulate BILL WARNER on winning the Australian hot rod championship at Windsor recently. Bill has improved out of sight over the past eight months and we are looking forward to seeing him in action here in a couple of weeks. At the moment he is busy re-building his mighty Corvette for the summer season. Apart from racing here regularly, Bill has also signed a contract to drive at the Perth speedway before Xmas.
From the third page:
Brisbane's new one mile speedway, Arthur Park, opened its gates to the public for the first time last Sunday afternoon under the direction of Empire Speedways. An enthusiastic crowd attended the grounds to watch a well organised programme of solo, sidecar and late model stock car races. Bob Sharpe and Johnny Stewart appeared at the meeting, the latter in an attempt to set a new one mile speedcar record. John sent his car around the one mile track in 41.8 seconds which represents an average speed of over 85 m.p.h. To set this time he had to touch almost 100 m.p.h. in the long back straight. Bob Sharpe gave a good account of himself and finished in the top three in a few races. Bob fitted a gear box to his Eso for the meeting and was touching well over the "ton" in the straights. The new track will feature speedcars at the next meeting, to be held late next month.
From the fourth page:
It is almost certain that you will be seeing a young American lass at the wheel of a stock car here later in the season. She is Miss Angelina Borgese, an attractive ex-Roller Derby girl from California. Angelina competes regularly on tracks around her home State and from what we have been told, she is quite aggressive when upset on the track (no doubt the result of her Roller Game activities). More details regarding Angelina's proposed trip will be published in a later programme.
Oct 2nd 1965 — Meeting No. 2
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
A great deal of money and hard work went into producing the first ATN Channel 7 video telecast here last week. Seven's hard working TV team, which includes Rex Mossop, Phil Berry and Max Drummond, started to set up their cameras five hours before the first race was held. A few lighting problems still have to be ironed out but the crew managed to capture most of the speedcar action. The ATN speedway show will be seen twice weekly during the summer season. On Saturday afternoons between 5 and 6 p.m. and on Thursday evenings at 10.30 p.m.
From the second page:
Remember little Hideyuki "Happy" Hirano, the Japanese speedcar driver who raced here a few years back? Well, latest news to hand indicates that Happy will go to New Zealand this season for a number of meetings at the Western Springs circuit, just outside of Auckland. Happy thoroughly enjoyed his Australian tour and expressed a desire to return in the near future. If his New Zealand commitments do not overlap our International title races, maybe we will see him here in Australia sometime in February.
* * * * *
For the very latest news on Local and Overseas Speedway . . . Read Speedway with Mike Raymond, every Friday in The Daily Mirror.
From the third page:
THE LATE RAY SHARPE
It was with great sadness that news was received last Saturday that Ray Sharpe, one of our leading solo riders had died in Brisbane as a result of injuries received the previous week at the Exhibition Speedway. A younger brother of Australian champion Bob, Ray was 25 years of age and in four short years of racing had become one of the top "A" graders.
Very popular with his fellow riders and all with whom he came in contact, Ray was most unassuming as he gradually worked his way up to near the top in the sport he loved. He was unmarried. To his family we offer the sincere sympathy of all those connected with speedway. A large crowd of Ray's friends and fellow competitors attended the funeral on Thursday.
Showground Track Records
The programme says there are eight track records in the Hot Rod category. Six of them—all Rolling Start records—are held by Marshall Sargent from the USA. Sargent's times are as follows:
- 1 lap—19 secs
- 2 laps—38.5 secs
- 3 laps—57.2 secs
- 4 laps, 1 min 15.4 secs
- 5 laps, 1 min 36.2 secs
- 6 laps, 1 min 55 secs
The two remaining Hot Rod records are held by Australians:
- W. [Bill?] Warner—15 laps Standing Start—5 mins 56.1 secs
- A. Seymour—20 laps Rolling Start—7 mins 39.4 secs
The track circumference is 557 yards (509.3 metres). Using 557 yards as the distance travelled, Sargent was getting average speeds of 96.26 km/h ± 1 km/h, Warner's average was 77.2 km/h, and Seymour's was 79.8 km/h.
Oct 9th 1965 — Meeting No. 3
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
Next Saturday night marks the return of the popular hot rods. All of the boys are eager to get cracking and a few of Marshall Sargent's old marks could take a tumble before the season concludes. Billy Warner and Dick Britton will be among the starters in next week's race so an exciting duel can be anticipated. Dick has fitted a wing to the top of his Jaguar as have quite a few other drivers. If the wing makes the difference then Bill Warner could be hard pressed to win another treble this season. That's if the wing makes the difference though.
* * * * *
ATN Channel 7 were so keen to capture the highlights of last Saturday night's meeting for their hour long programme that they hired Channel 10's outside broadcast van and staff while their own equipment was based in Bathurst for the Armstrong 500. Stronger lighting around the track, installed last week, was the answer to the lighting problems as any of you who watched the show this afternoon at 5 o'clock will agree. All of the regular Channel 7 boys are back tonight hoping to better the opposition's crew of last week.
From the second page:
It is hard to believe just how much Bryan Myers' driving has improved since last season. Bryan didn't kick off the 1964–65 summer season on the right foot. He was an innocent party in a pile up which resulted in him breaking a leg which put him out of action for a lengthy spell. The other driver mixed up in the prang was Johnny Harvey. Johnny is now one of Australia's top touring car drivers and we believe he is on the verge of moving into an open wheeler. Wonder though whether he still gets the urge to have another fling at speedcar racing?
Oct 16th 1965 — Meeting No. 4
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
Tonight marks the return of the popular hot rods for their first race of the summer season. The field for tonight's race is particularly strong and we should see plenty of action when Bill Warner and Dick Britton get together from the backmark. Bill is keen to start the season on a good note but he faces plenty of opposition in attempting to win the 20 lapper from his rather stiff handicap.
* * * * *
Mention cars spinning out to speedcar driver Kev Higgins at the moment and the chances are that you will receive a rather curt answer. Kev, one of our most promising drivers, got upside down for the first time last Saturday night in the feature race at the wheel of his own car. The accident started when Syd Reed slammed the safety fence in the main straight as a result of a steering failure. Syd tried to pull his car down in to the top corner but spun sideways. Kev, who was motoring along at quite a rate of speed, hooked a wheel over Syd's twin and headed in the direction of the bull pens safety fence. His car missed Kev Park's machine by inches and then turned over several times. Most of the field was right behind Kev and what resulted thereafter will probably go down as the most spectacular pile up seen here for some time. No less than 14 cars knocked into one another before the red lights came on. Kev was released from his wrecked car with only a minor shaking. He has quite an amount of work to do before car 30 returns to racing but hopes to be back on the track for our next meeting in November.
From the second page:
Everyone will pleased to learn that young Ray Kent is showing great progress after his nasty fall last season. Believe it or not but Ray has been sitting in the grandstand for the past three meetings and thoroughly enjoying himself. In his own words, Ray reckons he won't be completely happy 'till he is in the saddle again.
From the third page:
Our award for the best TV shot of the week goes to young Tony Connelly from ATN Channel 7 who captured both the speedcar prangs last Saturday night. The ATN boys excelled themselves and didn't miss one incident all night. Rex Mossop used extracts from the video tape telecast on his sports show on Sunday afternoon and the feature race accident was repeated in the news later the same day. Just a reminder that the Channel 7 show can be seen on Saturday afternoons between 5 and 6 p.m. Commentators are Rex Mossop and Mike Raymond and direction is by Phil Berry.
Nov 13th 1965 — Meeting No. 5
Programme front cover
The announcer is now Steve Raymond instead of Mike Raymond.
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
As this programme goes to press young sidecar passenger Keith Teasdale is in St. Vincents Hospital recovering from his nasty prang last meeting. Keith was struck by another bike while trying to regain his balance on Stan Bayliss' machine. We hope he is up and around very soon.
The second page has photos of Bob Tattersall, Jim Airey, and Bill Bingham.
From the third page:
Undoubtedly one of the our hardest working officials would be pit marshall Vic Mansfield. Vic has been handling the pit chores for a number of years and knows practically every rider and driver. Being a pit marshall takes a tremendous amount of time and Vic sometimes misses watching the racing. Keep up the good work Vic.
* * * * *
The hot rods will be featured here again next Saturday night in another thrilling 20 lapper. The event will mark Bill Warner's final appearance before leaving for a month's racing in West Australia.
Nov 20th 1965 — Meeting No. 6
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
The second page has a photo of Marshall Sargent. From the second page:
Although betting on speedway racing is strictly prohibited, we have a little story to relate concerning our Public Relations man Mike Raymond. He decided to run a little sweep on the result of the N.S.W. championship last week. All of ATN Channel 7's crew took part. even Rex Mossop. While everyone started picking the Stewarts, Brocks, Cunneens and Marshalls to Win, Mike nominated Bryan Myers. He stuck to his guns and won out although he reckons he had Wal Brooker working for him!
* * * * *
We are looking forward to seeing American hot rod champ MARSHALL SARGENT back in Australia shortly after Christmas. Marshall broke all records on our tracks last season and proved to be a worthy ambassador for the sport. He certainly livened up proceedings in Brisbane where a riot started after he and another driver exchanged blows during the middle of a championship race. We found Marshall to be a great driver and what's more important, a true sportsman. We received a letter from him recently and in it he said he was looking forward to his Australian tour. He will be bringing with him a special type of hot rod. It is being built along the lines of a sprint car and will be particularly light. Power unit will be a full house Traco Chevy, the same type of engine which is used by American big track champion, A. J. Foyt, in his sprint car. Last month, Marshall led the field home in a big 200 lap event at Sacramento, California.
* * * * *
ATN Channel 7's outside broadcast van is at the Sydney Town Hall tonight covering the Miss Australia Ball. So keen are ATN on speedway that they have once again hired TEN Channel 10's cameras and crew to capture all of tonight's highlights. Director tonight is Phil Berry, the action whiz who has done a marvellous job this season getting all of the action on video tape. Highlights of tonight's meeting may be seen next Saturday afternoon at 5 o'clock.
* * * * *
A boy to watch in tonight's hot rod 20 lapper is George Tattnall. George recently purchased Laurie Parry's Ford modified and has managed to bring it home first on a number of occasions. He recently impressed many people by downing Bill Warner in our first hot rod race of the season. George hopes he can repeat the win again tonight. As a result of his last success in fast time, George has been contracted to race in Brisbane next week.
From the third page:
Following tonight's hot rod race Bill Warner will set off immediately for Perth where he is scheduled to race next Friday night. Bill should go well on the big Claremont circuit and after watching him at the one mile Arthur Park speedway recently, W.A. drivers look like playing second fiddle to the winged No. 26 for the next three weeks. We wish Bill a safe and successful trip to the West and look forward to seeing him back here early next month when our next hot rod race will be staged.
* * * * *
Sidecar passenger Keith Teasdale, who was recently involved in a rather spectacular accident here, is well and truly on the mend in St. Vincent's Hospital. Keith is now allowed visitors and is hopeful of being back in the saddle after Xmas.
Nov 27th 1965 — Meeting No. 7
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the second page:
One of our hardest working officials would be National Speedcar Club pit marshall, Ralph Larnach. Ralph has a tough job keeping the drivers and car owners "on the ball", making sure they have their equipment on the track as quickly as possible. He is also on the handicap as well as the Management committees of the N.S.C.
* * * * *
Hot rodder George Tattnell is branching out these days into other sections of the sport. He made his first appearance here last Saturday night in a speedcar and did a creditable job to finish strongly in the graduation race. Later in the night he beat all comers in the 20 lap hot rod handicap. The win was George's second of the season and he certainly looks set for a great season, both in the speedcars as well as the rods. George has been contracted to race in Brisbane's big hot rod event next month.
* * * * *
Offenhauser driver Ray Oram, who has been married close on 12 months, was recently heard to have said — "I have three loves, the Offy, McHale's Navy and my wife." In that order Ray?
Dec 4th 1965 — Meeting No. 8
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
Last Saturday night's stock car race was a beauty and full honours go to Joe Tattnell on his win. Over 30 cars started in the race but a mere five were still going at the finish. This was Joe's first stock car win here, and most excited chap after the race was brother George, who has had his fair share of successes in both stock car and hot rod events.
* * * * *
Just a word of praise for the men who make up the accident crew of the National Speedcar Club, particularly Geoff Kinney and Jon Verall. These two men are highly trained in organising and assisting at accidents. They carry out their work in a competent manner and the National Speedcar Club is indeed fortunate to have two men devoted to helping others. Last Saturday night they excelled with quick work at the scene of three accidents. Geoff was burnt on the arm when he was assisting Peter Bowland from his car. Well done Geoff and Jon.
* * * * *
Johnny Stewart almost completely wrecked his McGee Shell Trackburner last meeting although most of the damage appeared to be only superficial. Upon closer inspection, it was found that the diff, chassis, steering box, fuel tank, radiator, nose, tail and front end were bent at strange angles. He received all of the damage when Syd Reed clouted him in the tail at full speed when he was stopped in the top corner during the Lew Marshall skirmish. Plenty of hard work and money has gone into having No. 1 ready for tonight's 50 lapper.
From the second page:
There is one thing you have to give Len Brock [no relation to Peter Brock] . . . when he becomes involved in an accident he usually puts on a spectacular display. When Bryan Cunneen and he tangled in last week's feature race Len's Berco Holden shot skywards over the top of the bull pens. It came down wrong side up with the veteran driver pinned underneath. Crash crew officials were quickly on the scene and had him released within a matter of seconds. Cunneen was disqualified over the incident by the officials but this was hardly any consolation to Len and car owner Ted Dark. The ATN and TCN films clearly showed what occurred and no doubt helped stewards who were still probing into the accident on Sunday afternoon. 'Brockie', not to be deterred, is back again tonight ready to make up for last week's effort in not finishing the feature race.
* * * * *
Peter Bowland was certainly a lucky boy to escape serious injury when he flipped Don Murray's Holden during the early stages of last week's feature race. He caught a wheel over Bryan Myers and executed three end for end flips before coming down wheels first. Ray Oram appeared to brush Peter's car just after it landed but caused no damage. Peter was taken to the casualty room for attention but apart from a burn on his left arm, he was quite okay.
Dec 11th 1965 — Meeting No. 9
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
Queensland hot rod champion Keith Blicharski is in the throws [sic. throes?] of selling his record breaking hot rod and intends building a speedcar. Keith has been a hard boy to beat on his home track, along with the polished Peter Dykes, but his latest move has stunned regular followers of the sport in Queensland. We are still hoping that he will be on hand for the N.S.W. hot rod championship, to be held here on January 29th. Queensland hot rod star Peter Dykes will also be a starter in our hot rod State championship, as also will be several of the leading Victorians.
* * * * *
George Tattnell is the boy to watch in tonight's 20 lap hot rod event. George will be shooting for the hat trick as he has won the last two hot rod races held here. Following tonight's meeting he will head North where he has been contracted to represent N.S.W. in the forthcoming Queensland championships. George is a particularly versatile driver. He is successfully mixing hot rod, stock car and speedcar racing and making it pay. Perhaps, in the not too distant future he may even turn to solos and sidecars.
From the second page:
Johnnie Stewart will have to do something spectacular if he hopes to retain the National Speedcar Club title this year. Mechanical failures over the past few weeks have put him on the infield while Peter Cunneen has been accumulating points. Last Saturday night Johnnie raced through the field to be placed second after only five and a half laps. His car then gave up the ghost. Reason we hear was that his crankshaft broke in halves, moved forward through the block and tore a great hole in the radiator. Maybe tonight will see a change of luck for this popular driver.
From the third page:
Saturday night, 8th January, will see the first appearance of our American stars, Bob Tattersall and Sherman Cleveland. Their Offenhausers were loaded in San Francisco this week and will arrive in Australia in plenty of time. Marshall Sargent's new 500 h.p. hot rod is on the same boat, and this spectacular hot-rodder will make his first appearance here on 15th January.
Dec 18th 1965 — Meeting No. 10
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
Bob Levy came close to winning the programme last night. He started in four races for three wins and also put his name in the record book by equalling Bill Bingham and the late Jack Bissaker's three lap record of 64 seconds. In the final of the handicap Bob was going great guns until he was forced on to the grass when another competitor stalled only a few yards ahead of him in the main straight. Bob roared on to the infield only to be confronted by officials and Ambulanceman John Crompton. John tried to outpace Bob but was hit by Bob's machine. He was taken to hospital for observation but allowed to leave the next morning. John was still able to crack it for a smile on Sunday although still a little black and blue. Is it any wonder that we request you to stay on the spectator side of the safety fence after the last race of the programme. Speedway racing is hard enough without brainless persons jumping over the fence and into the path of a speedcar or stockcar.
* * * * *
What wretched luck Bobby Sharpe has experienced over the past couple of years. Last Saturday night he took a nasty tumble in the opening solo handicap. He was taken to hospital with injuries to an arm and a leg and the latest information we have suggests he will be out of action for least six to eight weeks. Bob was intent on retaining his Australian title at Rowley Park, Adelaide, after Xmas but alas, things have changed since he signed contracts with Kym Bonython. It would take us at least a page to list the bad things which have happened to Bob over the years. He is such a likeable bloke that every time something goes wrong we all seem to feel a little of the burden he has to carry on his shoulders. We know you join with us in wishing the champion a speedy recovery. Hurry back Bob, we all miss you.
* * * * *
Last week's hot rod handicap had all the overtones of regular stock car event. The Kerry Johnson–Barry Pinchbeck incident had the crowd really stirred. Johnson, through knocking Pinchbeck into the safety fence and rolling him has been outed for the rest of the season. Ray Brett, who was declared the winner of the race, was later disqualified and outed for the rest of the season for not obeying red lights, red flags and black flags. The decision was given to young Gary Rush over Don Fortune. SCODA officials are out to stop rough driving in the hot rod division and they are to be congratulated for their firmness with drivers last week.
From the second page:
Only incident in last week's speedcar Craven Filter feature race involved popular backmark driver Bryan Myers. Bryan hooked a wheel over another car and nose dived head on into the pit gates. He was shaken in the spill and suffered a chipped bone in the knee, which will put him out of action for some weeks. Car owner Herb Elliot, who was standing on the gates at the time Bryan hit, took a nasty header and had to receive medical attention. Herb's first words when he came to again were: "I knew those pit stops should be barred".
* * * * *
ATN cameramen Tony Connely and Brian Brown are becoming experts at this speedway business. Along with well-known Director, Phil Berry, these men seem to sense when trouble is brewing. They have caught of the major action here this season and as this is the last night the ATN boys will be with us until after Xmas we say congratulations on a job well done so far this season.
From the third page:
The N.S.W. Hot Rod Championship will be decided here on January 29, when the leading Queensland and Victorian drivers will oppose Bill Warner, Dick Britton, George Tattnell and company. The title event will be decided over two heats and final, the first time that three hot rod events have been held on the one programme here. The "Auto-lite" Spark Plug Company is presenting an attractive trophy and cash bonuses of £25, £15 and £10 for the first three placegetters. Previous winners of this title race are 1964, Keith Blicarski (Q.); 1965, Bill Warner (N.S.W.).
Dec 27th 1965 — Meeting No. 11
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
Tonight we welcome to the Showground for the first time Barry Valentinna, one of Queensland's leading Offenhauser speedway drivers. In just over two seasons of racing at the Brisbane circuit Barry has risen from the novice ranks to be one of the backmarkers in first division events. Last season he acquired Bob Tattersall's Offy racer and employed a full time mechanic to look after the wrenching chores. Barry is of Mexican parents and in private life, conducts a successful used car business and also a very profitable pet-food wholesale supply. He has brought to Sydney with him a team of blokes who will assist him with all the work in the pit tonight. Barry is keen to do well tonight and we wish him the best of luck in the 100 lapper.
From the second page:
We have been congratulating ATN Channel 7 all season for the fine job they have done covering meetings here. As this is the final meeting of 1965 we would like to take this opportunity of also congratulating Gordon Carr who has shot some fine film for TCN Channel 9's World of Sport show which is televised every Saturday morning. Highlights of tonight's 100 lapper may be seen on World of Sport next Saturday morning at about 11.30.
From the third page:
Queenslander Bill Goode is certainly accumulating points in the Craven Filter series. He has won so many feature races in Brisbane this season that we are finding it hard to keep track of him. Yet another feature race win came his way on Monday night at the Exhibition Ground when he led Brian Davidson, Barry Watt and Ron Wanless to the wire for another 20 points. The 50 lap hot rod championship, held on the same programme was won by George Carpenter from our own George Tattnell while Queensland's highly rated "Count" Blicharski was third.
1966 Programmes
Jan 1st 1966 — Meeting No. 12
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
There's probably no greater enthusiast in Australian speedway than George Tattnell and probably none more versatile. A fortnight ago he was runner-up in Queensland's 40-lap hot rod event, last Monday he finished a creditable third in the speedcar graduation race and tonight he takes his place in the stock car field. Certainly a great variety of vehicles.
From the second page:
Several important road racing personalities were seen sitting in the stands last Monday night. Frank Matich, the Geoghegan [pronounced GAY-gan] brothers, Kev Bartlett, Brian Foley and Johnny Harvey watched the race with tremendous interest.
* * * * *
No one should miss our meeting here on 15th January, when you will see one of the world's greatest hot rod drivers in action. His name, MARSHALL SARGENT. Marshall is the current U.S.A. West Coast champion and has more titles than any other five hot rod men we know of racing at present. He is bringing to Australia a potent 460 h.p. winged special, a car capable of turning well over 150 m.p.h. Opposing him on 15th January will be none other than the "big three"—BILL WARNER, DICK BRITON and GEORGE TATTNELL. Marshall may have had things all his own way here last year but things have changed since then. N.S.W. hot rod drivers can hold their own anywhere in Australia and we believe that Marshall will have a real fight on his hands keeping ahead of the three drivers we have named.
From the third page:
The "stockies" are back with us tonight for the third heat of the £500 series. Toe [sic. Joe?] Tattnell is the driver to watch. He won the opening race of the series and finished second to Max Dinte in the second heat. Joe is joined tonight by brother George who last week finished second to George Carpenter in the Queensland 50-lap hot rod championship. George has yet to register a stock car win here this season but we feel confident that if the "breaks" come his way tonight, he'll take some stopping or rolling or whatever one has to do in order to win.
Jan 8th 1966 — Meeting No. 13
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
Nothing has been easier to take this season than Johnny Stewart's fine win in last Saturday night's 25 lap Craven Filter feature race. Johnny has been dogged with so much bad luck over the past couple of months that when he took the lead in last week's race quite a few people expected him to be on the grass within a couple of laps. The game little charger increased his lead to over a half lap at the halfway mark and maintained it to the finish. Team mate Kev Park set a solid pace to come in second, a quarter lap ahead of Wal Brooker, Len Brock and Bryan Cunneen. You may be interested to learn that Johnny was lucky to even compete at last Saturday night's meeting. He was warming up his car the previous day and received second degree burns to the right leg when a welsh plug blew out of the engine, spraying him with boiling water. Laurie Seidl, who helped John assemble the engine which won him the feature race, feels confident that it will running just as sweetly tonight.
* * * * *
Next Saturday night marks the first appearance this season of the one and only—Marshall Sargent. This versatile chap made such a big impression on all of us last season that we just had bring him back again this season. Marshall's car was un-loaded in Sydney last week. Believe us, it's quite a surprise packet and not unlike the machine which carried him to victory on just about every Australian circuit last year although the horsepower of the new type motor has been "upped" to nearly 500 h.p. If you are a hot rod fan then don't miss seeing Marshall in action here next Saturday night against Bill Warner, Dick Briton, George Tattnell and all the other hot rodders.
* * * * *
Last Saturday night's stock car race got well and truly out of hand as soon as the flag dropped. One man who made the race exciting was the eventual winner George Tattnell. George didn't pass one car in the field without giving it a nudge or two. He lost the armour plating on the front and rear of the machine during the course of the event but still continued to knock and bump his way to victory.
From the second page:
Bill Warner is anxious to get with it next Saturday night. Bill has competed in only two hot rod races this season here at the Showground and next week he faces his stiffest test yet in Marshall Sargent. Apart from the American, the champ is also looking forward to clashing with George Tattnell. Bill has already fitted a new 327 cubic inch, fuel injected Corvette for next week's meeting. He hopes to give his Shell special a solid work out before next Saturday night's meeting.
From the third page:
A driver who hopes to be back behind the wheel shortly is Bryan Myers. Bryan chipped a bone in his knee a month or so back and has been doing most of his driving from the grandstands in recent weeks. His car owner Phil Doherty has completely re-built number 97 and it wouldn't surprise us if Bryan still doesn't finish strongly in the Craven Filter £2,000 National Award series.
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Solo star Bob Sharp is at home making a recovery from injuries to his ankle and arm received early last month and is hoping it won't be long before he's in action again. He is as keen as ever and is looking forward to matching paces with Jim Airey.
Jan 15th 1966 — Meeting No. 14
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
And so we say welcome to our American visitor — Marshall Sargent. Marshall arrived in Sydney late last week hoping to catch a look at Bill Warner in action. The hot rods weren't featured at last Saturday night's meeting so Marshall and his mechanic Roy had to be content cheering Tatt [American Bob Tattersall] on to victory in the feature race. The champ's car was delivered to his workshop on Monday and Marshall has been giving it a special overhaul in preparation for tonight's meeting. Tonight he meets Bill Warner in a special return match race as well as the 20 lapper. We hope both Marshall and Roy enjoy their stay in Australia and we look forward to seeing them both again next month.
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You can't help but feel sorry for Johnny Stewart. He was going great guns in last week's feature race when his car broke a back axle and cartwheeled against the safety fence. Although it was a rather unspectacular incident, Johnny took the full force of the crash. He broke his nose and had to have 22 stitches inserted in his jaw. Although black and blue, he returned to the track just after the feature race had been completed. Knowing that he couldn't get a new axle before tonight's meeting he acquired a new, two speed quick change diff from Sherman Cleveland and has fitted it for tonight's meeting. Johnny went down to Bob Tattersall in their match race last week (although there wasn't more than a car's length in it all the way) but made a brilliant comeback by winning the International scratch race. We hope the little fella is feeling in good shape tonight and we wish him a successful run in the feature event.
From the second page:
How's this for luck. Marshall Sargent went to Rosehill races last Saturday afternoon just to spend "a couple of dollars". He arrived at the track and saw that a race was about to commence. He looked at the starters and saw a horse by the name of Marskel, which is pretty close to Marshall. Just for kicks he invested £1. Marskel came home like a bullet at . . . wait for it . . . 100/1. The American backed winners all afternoon and was all smiles when he arrived here for the meeting that night.
Jan 22nd 1966 — Meeting No. 15
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
They say you can't keep a good man down and this must certainly apply to Johnny Stewart. Johnny turned up last Saturday night heavily bandaged after his accident the previous Saturday night when he broke his nose and two ribs and suffered facial injuries. John tried to relax after holding down second in last week's feature race but Bryan Cunneen forced him into pushing his foot a little harder on the pedal. Bowland, Stewart and Cunneen crossed the finishing line only inches apart in what we feel was the closest finish ever seen in a feature race. Congratulations to all three drivers.
* * * * *
Marshall Sargent really "cleaned house" last Saturday night. Marshall established a new one lap hot rod record of 18.9 seconds, annihilated Bill Warner and then came on strong to annex the 20 lap feature from one lap behind the field. What can one say after a performance like that? George Tattnell looked like making it hard for the champion when he raced up to take the lead but the thundering number 7 had far too much power when it came to running wheel to wheel on the straights. Marshall will be back with us again next month for one night's racing but in the meantime, don't forget the official N.S.W. hot rod title will be decided here next Saturday night.
From the second page:
ATN Channel 7 and their outside broadcast crew will be back on deck again next Saturday night. Pity the boys all went on holidays this month as we would like to have seen coverage (video tape that is) of the last few International meetings.
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We have received many letters from enthusiasts over the past month complaining about the lack of speedway coverage in the Daily Newspapers. Unfortunately we have no control over what does and does not go in the sporting columns of the newspapers so may we suggest that you write your letters in future to the sporting Editors and not to the speedway office. We agree in most cases that speedway does not receive the coverage it should when you compare our attendance figures with those of a few other "professional" sports.
* * * * *
In addition to the trophy for last week's winner of the speedcar feature, the Volvo car agents—Swedish Motor Imports—also gave the trophy for the hot rod event won by American Marshall Sargent. The Volvo chief, Mr Winkworth was an interested spectator, and his gesture in giving the trophies was much appreciated.
From the third page:
South Australian sidecar rider Harry Denton won't admit his age but his career dates back to 1935. Current Rowley Park form suggests that you keep an eye on the veteran tonight.
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A new speedway paper by the name of "National Speed Sport" went on sale for the first time outside the grounds last week. Most of the copies were sold in a matter of a few hours. Publisher and Editor Bill Beecham did a great job with the first issue and he has even bigger plans for the second. Here's wishing Bill the best of luck with his new publication.
Jan 29th 1966 — Meeting No. 16
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
Marshall Sargent and his well shod, winged wonder were too good for the Adelaide opposition at Rowley Park last Friday night. Marshall easily won the feature race over 20 laps. The burly American returns to Sydney next month, for a final appearance before his departure back to the States.
From the second page:
American Sherman Cleveland hit top form at the Claremont Speedway, Perth, last Friday night and won the West Australian State round of the Craven Filter £2,000 National Award series. [ . . . ] Johnny Stewart, who was also in Perth for the meeting, did not compete owing to burns received when the car he was going to drive in the race, blew up and caught fire during a practice spin the previous day. Most of the "Craven chasers" raced in Adelaide last night but they should be back in time for tonight's 20 lap feature race.
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We say welcome back to the ATN Channel 7 outside broadcast team tonight. The boys have been on holidays since Christmas and we hope their reflexes are 100% efficient. If they are, then there should be plenty of action on the programme, to be seen next Saturday afternoon between 2.30 and 3.30 p.m. Director of the show tonight is Phil Berry, technical producer Max Drummond and commentators Rex Mossop and Mike Raymond help make up the team which has been doing such a fine job of covering meetings here this season.
* * * * *
Tonight we welcome a host of interstate stars who are here for the 1966 N.S.W. hot rod championship over 20 laps. From Victoria comes a team of well known pilots—Billy Willis, Graeme McCubbin, Allan Seddon and Noel Ferrari. Queensland will also be well represented in the persons of—Mr Keith Blicarski, Reece Jackson, and the versatile Peter Dykes. All seven drivers have been driving hot rods for a considerable period of time. Willis and McCubbin are both former stock car champions of the now defunct Tracey's Speedway, Melbourne, while the three Queenslanders have been regular competitors at the Brisbane Exhibition Grounds since the inception of stock car racing. We welcome the visitors and hope they do well tonight.
From the third page:
Bryan Myers is hopeful of returning to action tonight. Bryan broke a leg in an accident last month and has been laid up in plaster. He intended going to Adelaide for the State round last night and here for tonight's meeting. It will good to see Bryan back behind the wheel again. He was going extremely well early in the season in the Doherty brothers Holden and had no trouble clearing out to win the N.S.W. title from fast finishing Bryan Cunneen.
Feb 5th 1966 — Meeting No. 17
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
There were quite a few disappointments in the N.S.W. hot rod championship. Keith Blicharski, Peter Dykes and Bill Warner all struck trouble and failed to fill any of the minor placings. Warner looked a likely winner at the halfway mark. He roared through from the second row to take the lead away from Gary Rush but broken radiator hose put a halt to his chances during the closing stages of the event.
* * * * *
The ATN Channel 7 telecasts have commenced once again and highlights of tonight's meeting may be seen next Saturday afternoon between 2.30 and 3.30.
From the second page:
Two very welcome visitors to the Showground tonight are world road racing champion and Indianapolis "500" winner—Jimmy Clark and hard driving B.R.M. star—Jackie Stewart. Both boys will be taking part in the International 100 at Warwick Farm on February 13th. Tonight, however, they have come along to take a look at speedway racing. We welcome both Jim and Jackie and trust they thoroughly enjoy tonight's programme.
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Marshall Sargent, America's "wild man" of hot rod racing, will be back here on Saturday week. Marshall struck engine trouble at Rowley Park last Friday night and was forced to drive a borrowed car in a series of three, one lap match races. Imagine the surprise of his rivals when he walked off and won two of the heats and dead-heated in the third. Marshall is undoubtedly one of finest overseas drivers to race in Australia. His thundering Corvette was overhauled during the week in preparation for last night's meeting at the Perth speedway. If you are a hot rod fan then don't forget February 19th for that's the night Sargent and his winged wonder will once again take on the State's best drivers.
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Next Saturday night we are publishing a special souvenir programme to mark the completion of the Craven Filter National $4,000 Speedcar Drivers' Championship for 1965-66. We expect a record crowd for the Grand Final of the competition so be early and make sure you acquire a special programme. Price will remain the same at one shilling (10 cents).
* * * * *
Nothing has been easier to take this season than George Tattnell's fine win in the N.S.W. hot rod championship last Saturday night. George drew well back in the field and it wasn't too long before he was up into second place behind the flying Bill Warner. When Warner pulled out George hit the front and went on to win easily over Clive Sevenoaks and Billy Willis (Victoria). The name Tattnell is becoming pretty familiar with speedway enthusiasts this season. George has won no less than three hot rod events and a big stock car scramble. Besides this, he is rapidly improving as a speedcar pilot. Tonight sees him in the feature race field so maybe a win there and also in the $1,000 stock car 50 lapper would convince everyone that this boy is going places—but fast.
From the third page:
Once again may we remind you to please refrain from jumping the safety fence as soon as the stock car race is over. If you are interested in taking a look at the stockies then please do it outside the pits after the race and not on the track.
Feb 12th 1966 — Meeting No. 18
Programme front cover
Only found the cover
Feb 19th 1966 — Meeting No. 19
Programme front cover
The 14th of February 1966 has passed; the programme isn't 1 shilling anymore, it's now 10 cents.
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
Tonight we welcome back to Sydney American hot rod whiz Marshall Sargent and his flying machine. Marshall has been away competing at Interstate tracks over the past six weeks and tonight's appearance is one of three before returning home. Next week he goes to Brisbane for a fortnight's action after which he will take off for Daytona and a short break before beginning the new U.S. season. Marshall and Roy Crammond, his mechanic, have asked us to say "goodbye and thank you" to all those people who have helped make their stay in Australia enjoyable.
Feb 26th 1966 — Meeting No. 20
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
The first page has a photo of Bob Tattersall.
The second page has a photo of Bruce Rickard. From the second page:
Highlights of tonight's Australian Speedcar Grand Prix will be shown next Saturday afternoon between 2.30 and 3.30 on ATN Channel 7. The ATN boys missed last week's speedcar and hot rod feature races because of video taping commitments with the Bob Crosby Show. Tonight, however, they have left nothing to chance and a few brief highlights of the programme will be seen tomorrow at noon on Rex Mossop's sporting programme.
From the third page:
Last Monday night's 20 lap hot rod trophy race was a beauty. Imagine the look of surprise on Marshall Sargent's face when Bill Warner went around him on the outside in heavy traffic. What a pity though that Warner and Sargent were forced to retire from action. Marshall encountered trouble with the "magnificent 7" while Bill suffered chassis damage to his Corvette when he tangled with Clive Sevenoaks on the back straight. Full honours though go to young Gary Rush who did a great job of drawing away from George Tattnell and Bill Booth to win easily.
From the fourth page:
WARNING: Any person found throwing anything on to the speedway track during a meeting is liable to police prosecution.
* * * * *
We would urge you to please refrain from jumping the safety fence following the completion of tonight's Grand Prix. If you care to take a look at a certain car then do so by all means—in the pits after the meeting!
Showground track records
Two records have been equalled:
- Solo—1 lap, flying start
- old: Bill Bryden = 19.2 secs
- new: Bill Bryden and Jim Airey = 19.2 secs
- Solo—2 laps, flying start
- old: Arthur Payne = 38.4 secs
- new: Arthur Payne and Jim Airey = 38.4 secs
Three records have changed:
- Sidecar—3 laps, gate start
- old: Jack Bissaker and B. [Bill] Bingham = 64 secs
- new: Bob Levy = 63.2 secs
- Speedcar—7 laps, rolling start
- old: Bob Tattersall (USA) = 2 mins 22.2 secs
- new: Ray Glazebrook = 2 mins 22 secs
- Hot Rod—1 lap, rolling start
- old: M. Sargent (USA) = 19 secs
- new: M. Sargent (USA) = 18.9 secs
March 5th 1966 — Meeting No. 21
Programme front cover
Speedway Jottings
From the third page:
American hot rodder Marshall Sargent excelled himself at the Brisbane Exhibition Ground last Saturday night when he completely lapped the field twice during the running of the main event. Marshall quickly showed everyone that he wasn't just out for the ride and swept through the traffic as though his mighty Corvette were on rails. George Tattnell and Gary Rush have gone to Queensland this week in the hope of giving the burly American some added opposition in tonight's 50 lap International event.
* * * * *
A number of enthusiasts are banding together to form a Jim Airey fan club. Anyone interested in joining should contact Miss Tania Bailey, 6 Rabaul Street, North Curl Curl. Phone 93 6376.
also
The handwritten note at the top says "B Cunneen crashed caught on fire sent to hospital"
March 12th 1966 — Meeting No. 22
Programme front cover
From the cover:
This is the final meeting before Easter
Two big meetings will be held after the Show with the first appearance at the Showground of the Stock Rods and the special Craven Filter night when cash bonuses and trophies will be presented to winners of all sections.
APRIL 23 & APRIL 30
Note: Programmes for the April 23rd and April 30th meetings not available.
Speedway Jottings
From the first page:
We would like to take this opportunity of congratulating the National Speedcar Club's fire and crash crew for their fast work last Saturday night in saving Bryan Cunneen from what could have been further serious injury. Bryan overturned in the Members Stand corner and appeared to be quite safe until another car struck him at full speed. The impact of the crash sent a shower of sparks across Cunneen's car and ignited the racing fuel pouring out of the tank which had split. Bryan looked to be in a nasty spot until Reg Mulligan, Geoff Kinney, John Verall and other members of the N.S.C. crash crew released the dazed driver from the cockpit. Bryan suffered only minor burns in the accident and we hope that it won't be too long before we see him back behind the wheel again.
* * * * *
Classical comment from Bryan Cunneen in hospital on Sunday morning—"That's the last time I wish to start HOT FAVOURITE to win a race."
From the second page:
Bob Tattersall returns to America next month to begin preparing for the Indianapolis "500". During the month of April the popular charger will be employed by Goodyear to test their new speedcar tyres for a reputed 200 dollars a DAY.
From the third page:
Marshall Sargent returned home last Sunday but forgot to take with him all the trophies won on Australian tracks this season. There is still one trophy in the speedway office which Marshall collected for winning the 1965 Autolite Derby here. The burly hot rod star claims he'll collect them all next season when he returns with another magnificent winged machine.
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Tommy Watts and Graham Bailee can well claim to be speedway's "forgotten men". Tom and Graham have done a mighty job this season as official lap scorers for the speedcar races. It is not much fun sitting at a table calling car numbers as drivers flash by but these two men are devoted to their job and rarely see the racing.
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ON SALE NOW
AUSTRALIAN RODDING WORLD
"THE HOT RODDERS MAGAZINE"will [sic. with?] full colour autographed photo of Johnny Stewart in his McGEE-SHELL-TRACKBURNER No. 1
Plus 6 exciting pages on Stewart and his fantastic car. Read the Stewart story exclusively told to RODDING WORLD.
LATEST REPORTS ON AUSTRALIAN & OVERSEAS DRAG RACING IN SAME ISSUE
AT ALL NEWSAGENTS
The track records are unchanged.
